The Vault: Maheen Kolata
Maheen Kolata unlocks her vault
Maheen Kolata talks about her passion and experiences that led her to create unique pieces of jewellery. Maheen designs jewellery pieces and incorporates semi-precious stones and unique elements that she believes will appeal to jewellery lovers. Pharmacist by profession and jewellery designer by passion, Maheen launched her jewellery brand, “Maheen Jewels”, three years ago in the US with hard work and determination. TEdit chats with Maheen and finds out all about her journey as a jewellery designer.
How/when did you become interested in jewellery?
I was always inspired by gemstones and jewellery making from my late maternal grandfather, who was a jeweller with some of the biggest precious jewellery houses of Pakistan, during his time. He used to share many stories of his passion for jewellery and the love for different gemstones. At the time I was quite young, but that inspiration and love for jewellery eventually brought me into this business.
What are your favourite pieces of jewellery (precious or costume)?
I like both precious and costume jewellery. My favourite precious jewellery pieces would be my engagement ring and a gold bangle. In costume jewellery, I love to wear gemstone or kundan studs, and I also love delicate necklaces.
Where did you get them?
Wedding ring was given by my husband of course. The gold bangle was gifted by my mother. Kundan or gemstone studs are usually from my own collection.
Is there any piece you are emotionally attached to and why?
A gemstone necklace designed by my grandfather.
Share a story with us about how you acquired one of your favourite pieces?
My grandfather made a small necklace for me with different coloured gemstones before he passed away. This piece will always be special for me. I hope to make a signature design inspired by this necklace for my collection one day.
Is there anything on your radar that you want to add to your collection in the future?
Possibly a sapphire ring or necklace.
How/when did you become interested in jewellery?
I was always inspired by gemstones and jewellery making from my late maternal grandfather, who was a jeweller with some of the biggest precious jewellery houses of Pakistan, during his time. He used to share many stories of his passion for jewellery and the love for different gemstones. At the time I was quite young, but that inspiration and love for jewellery eventually brought me into this business.
What are your favourite pieces of jewellery (precious or costume)?
I like both precious and costume jewellery. My favourite precious jewellery pieces would be my engagement ring and a gold bangle. In costume jewellery, I love to wear gemstone or kundan studs, and I also love delicate necklaces.
Where did you get them?
Wedding ring was given by my husband of course. The gold bangle was gifted by my mother. Kundan or gemstone studs are usually from my own collection.
Is there any piece you are emotionally attached to and why?
A gemstone necklace designed by my grandfather.
Share a story with us about how you acquired one of your favourite pieces?
My grandfather made a small necklace for me with different coloured gemstones before he passed away. This piece will always be special for me. I hope to make a signature design inspired by this necklace for my collection one day.
Is there anything on your radar that you want to add to your collection in the future?
Possibly a sapphire ring or necklace.